Peter White Christmas by Peter White Rick Braun Mindi Abair

Here’s a sweet holiday gem with all the charisma and soul of three of the most highly respected artists in smooth jazz. Each "take" on a holiday classic is approached with an intent to revitalize and arouse the holiday spirit at a time when we are all so preoccupied with the latest trials and tribulations of our ever-changing and ever-complicated world. This is a timely and well-received gift from these esteemed artists.

From the stylish rendition of "Little Drummer Boy" and the smooth, mellow-yet-jubilant "The Christmas Song" to tunes like "River" (my favorite here), "Jingle Jangle Blues" and "Santa Claus Is Coming to Town/Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy," the trio presents a very diverse interpretation of these wonderfully inspiring offerings.

As most smooth jazzers know, each of these artists is an art form unto him/herself. Now comes a project that should have hit the streets long before now. A joint adventure that we can all greatly appreciate. The masses have been clamoring for it for ages after having witnessed the renowned Peter White Christmas tour over the years.

This is an album that you’ll be reluctant to pack away after the holidays, as many often do with the Christmas albums. No, this one has enough snazzy jazziness to keep it fresh and appealing all year ‘round. The splendid and hypnotically fluid guitar of Peter White (of course, a household name in smooth jazz), coupled with the artfulness and sheer magic of Rick Braun’s trumpet and flugelhorn and the saucy sax of Mindi Abair (who’s really enjoyed phenomenal success since her entry into the world of smooth jazz not really that long ago) really provide one scrumptious recipe for a great holiday musical feast.

Hey, and the vocals are great, too! Oh, we’ve heard the fine and tender quality of Mindi Abair’s vocals on each of her albums, but you don’t often get to witness Rick Braun’s crooning skills. He definitely holds his own. Even the masterful guitar-playing Brit offers his pipes as proof that he’s not to be ignored! All in all, this one should be a very Merry Christmas gift.